WAFU B Anti-Doping workshop closes with renewed commitment to Integrity
Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, played host to a significant event for African football from 14 to 16 October 2024: a workshop for doping control officers, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s Anti-Doping Unit.
The program, aimed at strengthening anti-doping practices across West African nations under WAFU B, aligns with CAF's initiatives to promote clean and fair football.
The workshop reflects the vision of CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, who emphasizes integrity and the development of football on the continent.
The three-day event focused on training officers on the MODOC system, a new digital platform designed to streamline doping control and minimize human error.
A New Era of Doping Control in African Football
Over the course of the workshop, participants engaged in both theoretical and practical sessions that allowed them to master the MODOC system, a paperless, online platform that simplifies doping control processes.
This system marks a major step forward for CAF, making procedures more transparent and aligned with international standards.
The world's leading sports organizations are increasingly adopting similar technologies, and CAF's adoption of MODOC ensures that Africa remains at the forefront of clean sport.
One of the key goals of the workshop was to train officers to independently operate the MODOC system. Through hands-on exercises, participants simulated real doping control scenarios, equipping them with the skills to implement the technology during CAF competitions.
The move to a paperless system not only enhances data security but also reflects CAF’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Positive Feedback from Participants and Authorities
The workshop concluded with positive feedback from both participants and local sports authorities. Many participants expressed that the training not only enhanced their technical skills but also deepened their commitment to the fight against doping.
Sherif Ahmed, Head of CAF’s Anti-Doping Department, praised the participants' dedication, stating, "I am fully satisfied with the level of engagement and professionalism displayed. Over the three days, participants showed exemplary readiness to represent the Anti-Doping Unit during CAF competitions, and we successfully achieved the workshop's objectives."
The closing ceremony was attended by Colonel Major Oumarou Sawadogo, President of the Burkina Faso Football Federation, who commended CAF’s efforts.
"I thank the Confederation of African Football for organizing this important workshop here in Burkina Faso. The commitment of the participants has been commendable, and I hope this event sets the stage for future collaborations of this magnitude," said Sawadogo.
Towards a Clean Future for African Football
The workshop in Ouagadougou represents just the beginning of CAF's intensified efforts to combat doping.
The training of officers in the MODOC system is a testament to CAF’s goal of fostering a transparent future, with efficient doping controls in all African competitions. For CAF, aligning African practices with global standards is essential to ensuring that the continent is celebrated not only for its talent but also for its integrity.
Looking ahead, CAF's Anti-Doping Unit will continue its efforts with another workshop scheduled for 14-16 January 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa, targeting participants from the COSAFA zone.